Biography
Galactic is a renowned American band formed in 1994 in New Orleans, Louisiana, by childhood friends Robert Mercurio (bass) and Jeff Raines (guitar), who moved from the Washington, DC area to attend college at Tulane and Loyola Universities. Immersed in the vibrant local funk scene, they joined forces with drummer Stanton Moore, keyboardist Rich Vogel, and saxophonist Ben Ellman, eventually stabilizing as a sextet with vocalist Theryl "Houseman" DeClouet. Initially performing under the name Galactic Prophylactic, the group quickly became known for their marathon live shows, improvisational jams, and a sound deeply rooted in the traditions of New Orleans funk, drawing inspiration from legendary acts like The Meters and Professor Longhair.
Over the years, Galactic evolved musically, incorporating elements of jazz, hip-hop, rock, electronica, and soul into their repertoire. Their early albums leaned heavily on jazzy funk, but subsequent releases showcased a broader palette, including collaborations with rappers and guest vocalists after DeClouet's departure in 2004. Notably, their 2007 album "From the Corner to the Block" featured prominent hip-hop artists, marking a new chapter in their creative journey. Galactic has remained a cornerstone of the New Orleans music scene, celebrated for their high-energy performances at iconic venues such as Tipitina's, the House of Blues, and the Howlin' Wolf, and for their role in perpetuating and innovating the city's musical legacy.
The band's influence extends beyond their own recordings and shows, as they have collaborated with a wide array of artists and contributed to the evolution of New Orleans music. Their purchase of the legendary Tipitina's nightclub in 2018 further cemented their commitment to the city's cultural heritage. Galactic continues to tour and record, working with vocalists like Anjelika "Jelly" Joseph and featuring guest appearances from artists such as Macy Gray, Cyril Neville, Trombone Shorty, Irma Thomas, John Boutté, and Big Freedia.
Fun Facts
- Galactic originally performed under the name 'Galactic Prophylactic' before shortening it.
- The band's marathon shows at venues like Tipitina's often started after midnight and ended at sunrise, especially during Mardi Gras and Jazzfest.
- Galactic purchased the legendary New Orleans nightclub Tipitina's in 2018, preserving a key venue in the city's music history.
- Saxophonist Ben Ellman drove to New Orleans from California on vacation and decided to stay, joining the band soon after.
Members
- Theryl de’Clouet - additional (until 2004)
- Ben Ellman
- Fiyapowa!
- Robert Mercurio
- Stanton Moore
- Jeff Raines
- Rich Vogel
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Theryl 'Houseman' DeClouet - First lead singer and mentor, guided the band in their formative years, pushing them to think bigger and more creatively. (Early albums (1996-2004)) [1994-2004]
- The Meters - Stylistic influence; their late 1960s/70s funk sound shaped Galactic's musical direction. (Influence on overall band style) [Band formation onwards]
- Professor Longhair - Inspirational figure in New Orleans funk and R&B; influenced the band's groove-based approach. (Influence on overall band style) [Band formation onwards]
Key Collaborators
- Cyril Neville - Touring vocalist and guest artist. (Live performances, featured on albums) [2011-2012]
- Corey Glover - Touring vocalist. (Live performances) [2012-2014]
- Maggie Koerner - Touring vocalist. (Live performances)
- Erica Falls - Touring vocalist. (Live performances) [2015-present]
- Corey Henry - Touring trombonist. (Live performances) [2009-2016]
- Shamarr Allen - Touring trumpet player. (Live performances) [2016-present]
- Juvenile, Chali 2na, Boots Riley, Lyrics Born - Featured rappers on 'From the Corner to the Block' album. (From the Corner to the Block (2007))
- Anjelika 'Jelly' Joseph - Current touring vocalist. (Live performances, recent recordings) [2019-present]
- Macy Gray, Trombone Shorty, Irma Thomas, John Boutté, Big Freedia - Featured guest artists on various recordings. (Various albums and live performances) [Various]
Artists Influenced
- Local New Orleans musicians - Galactic's fusion of funk, jazz, and hip-hop has inspired a new generation of New Orleans artists. (Influence seen in contemporary New Orleans funk and jam bands) [1996-present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Galactic Empire | 2017-02-03 | Album |
| Special Edition | 2023-05-03 | Album |
| Episode II | 2018-05-04 | Album |
| Cinemetal | 2025-10-24 | Album |
| Episode II | 2018-05-04 | Album |
| Galactic Empire | 2017-02-03 | Album |
Top Tracks
- The Imperial March (Galactic Empire)
- Duel Of The Fates (Galactic Empire)
- Superman (Superman)
- Cantina Band (Galactic Empire)
- Avengers (Avengers)
- Main Theme (Galactic Empire)
- The Force Theme (Galactic Empire)
- The Mandalorian - Star Wars Metal (Special Edition)
- Battle of The Heroes (Galactic Empire)
- Jurassic Park Theme (Jurassic Park Theme)
External Links
Tags: #acid-jazz, #funk, #hip-hop-rnb-and-dance-hall
References
Heard on WWOZ
galactic has been played 50 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.